Computer Spot

I get asked all the time, “What video card should I buy?”, and I always have to answer, “What are you using your PC for?”.

Depending on whether your needs are for business, watching movies, or for extreme gaming can change the answer greatly.

For most of us common users, we are most interested in having great speed while watching our movies, and videos, with a card that can do a little gaming.

If you are a hardcore gamer, then you know you need to match your games to your video card.  Often many games only support certain video chipsets.

So, if you have a favorite game, make sure you buy your video card based upon their recommended chipset.

For us home users who love to watch our TV, Videos, and Movies on our PC, we will want a card to do Hi-Def, and possibly Blu-Ray decoding.

My current favorite is ATI’s HD4670 chipset.  These cards are fantastic for watching all kinds of movie formats, whether streaming, HD-DVD, or Blu-ray.  You can find cards with the HD4670 from manufacturers like Diamond, Sapphire, and Asus.

If you are one of the hardcore gamers, I’m sure you’re well aware of the constant battle between Nvidia and ATI for being the speed champion.

I’ve always been happy with Nvidia for gaming.  If you want to be on the cutting edge, be prepared to shell out $500 for a great gaming card from either Nvidia or ATI.  For most games, you can get buy with slightly older chipsets, and keep your price down around $100.